EFFECT OF ATMOSPHERIC CORROSION ON THE MECHANICAL-PROPERTIES OF THE WEATHERING STEEL ATMOFIX 52A

Corrosion kinetics, mechanical properties and surface morphology of the weathering steel ATMOFIX 52A were investigated on the specimens exposed for 0.5-10 years at rural, urban and industrial sites. The results confirm that corrosion rate is dependent on the corrosiveness of the atmosphere. During the course of the corrosion exposure, the surface morphology is changed and the roughness parameters increased. Mechanical properties are influenced by corrosion attack. Elongation and reduction in area are reduced relatively more than ultimate tensile strength and yield strength. The effect of the roughening of the corroded surface on fatigue strength is essential.